Severe wildfire alert for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland is covered by tonight’s ‘severe alert’ from the UK Government, which has been triggered by the ‘very high risk’ of wildfires across the region. The alert calls on all residents, landowners and visitors to avoid any activity that could start a fire, including lighting disposable barbecues, firepits and fireworks.
The general public should take steps to avoid the risk of causing fires.
This includes:
• Not starting any fires, including disposable barbecues, firepits, garden incinerators and fireworks
• Not starting bonfires or campfires
• Not using barbecues (even those which are non-disposable) unless in a safe, controlled location away from vegetation
• Disposing of cigarettes and other smoking materials thoroughly
• Not leaving rubbish in the countryside, on or near grass or vegetation - this particularly applies to glass, which can magnify heat
• Taking care in large gatherings to make sure activities do not heighten the risk of fires – even if attending organised events
• Seeking advice before taking community action to reduce fire risk, such as creating ‘fire breaks’ – there’s a chance this may make the situation worse
Callum Faint, Chief Fire Officer for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, said: “Following weeks of persistent dry weather, the risk of wildfires is now extremely high. Even a small flame can rapidly develop into a major wildfire, putting lives, homes, businesses and our emergency responders at risk.
“We urge the public to be extremely vigilant and to do nothing that might exacerbate this risk.”
Members of the public should remain vigilant and report fires in the open as soon as possible by dialling 999 – never assume someone else has made the call.
The public can also help emergency services by downloading the free app What3Words to their smartphones, which helps crews pinpoint the location of fires in remote areas.
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service is working closely with local authorities and other partnership organisations to help stop the sale of disposable barbecues, and to enforce and advise on additional fire safety measures.